State-Wide Exhibition at Art Center Sarasota Showcases Florida-Based Artists

Art Center Sarasota presents “Florida’s Finest,” a juried exhibition of works by Florida artists, September 5 through October 4. The opening reception is Thursday, September 5, 5-7 p.m. A free juror critique, open to the public is Tuesday, September 3, 6 p.m. Art Center Sarasota is located at 707 N. Tamiami Trail, in Sarasota. For more information, call 941-365-2032 or visit www.artsarasota.org.
“Florida’s Finest” showcases the wide-ranging talents of Florida-based artists and includes two- and three-dimensional works in a variety of media. The exhibit’s juror is Christopher Jones, curator of photography and new media at The Ringling.
According to Lisa Berger, Art Center Sarasota’s director, “Florida’s Finest” gives area residents and visitors a chance to see outstanding works by area-based artists—as well as art by artists from outside our tri-county region. “By staging the exhibition in the summer months, we’re able to create cultural opportunities for tourists and year-round residents during a time when there are less arts and cultural events happening in our area,” says Berger. She notes that the exhibit attracts submissions from highly skilled artists from around the state in part because of the exhibition’s substantial awards ($1,500 for first prize; $1,000 for second prize; $500 for third prize; $250 for merit awards; and $100 for special recognitions). “Florida’s Finest” is funded, in part, by the Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues.